Like many adults recently diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Katie felt a mixed bag of emotions. Relief that there was an answer to why she struggled to get things done. Anger that no one had diagnosed her sooner (despite years of therapy). Grief over what might have been accomplished if she had known about her diagnosis earlier. The emotional weight was heavy. But what was even more daunting was not yet knowing the answer to the question: what next?
Katie began to realize that having a plan after an ADHD diagnosis was as important as receiving the diagnosis.
1. Understanding Your ADHD Testing in Columbus, Ohio
To diagnose ADHD, specialists will use multiple tests and evaluations. ADHD testing is a complex process, as many adults with ADHD have learned to mask their ADHD over the years. Not to mention the fact that ADHD can mimic other diagnoses. To be 100% certain you have ADHD, your ADHD specialist will use a variety of behavioral scales, psychological tests, and will collect an extensive history from you.
Once all the information and data have been collected, your testing specialist will give you an exact diagnosis. ADHD testing should include neurological testing that includes several graphs and charts based on your individual data that determine whether or not you have ADHD. Once the pieces are put together, you will receive an accurate diagnosis.
There are three different types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive, and combined type. ADHD also ranges in severity: mild, moderate, or severe. The precision of the diagnosis gives you the clearest path to a plan.
ADHD testing should leave ample time for your question. It’s normal to have more than a few!
2. Building Your Personalized ADHD Treatment Plan
There are several different paths forward for ADHD treatment: medication, ADHD therapy, couples therapy for ADHD, and education about your diagnosis.
But here’s the secret: there is no one-size-fits-all solution. While many things sound good on paper, many people with ADHD feel the cookie-cutter advice they receive doesn’t apply to their own life (i.e. you know the old…“just get a notebook”). You’re not alone in your frustration.
ADHD therapy that is effective will merge science with uncovering the unique ways ADHD impacts your own life. While many people with ADHD would benefit from tools to work on emotional regulation, others will benefit from organizational skills or communication tools learned in couples therapy.
3. Processing the Emotions Around Your ADHD Diagnosis
Don’t skip emotional processing (you will definitely have feelings about having late-diagnosed ADHD). Receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult is different from getting one as a kid. As a kid, your identity is still forming. There’s time to add the fact that your brain works differently into your sense of self. But as an adult, it’s a massive gear shift. Strong emotions are common.
Working with an ADHD therapist can help you process emotions and feel empowered by having the tools to manage your busy brain.
4. Learning to Reframe ADHD
Through ADHD therapy, Katie learned to harness ADHD strengths and turn down the volume on the frustrating parts. 
Yes, there were some disadvantages to struggling with focus. But she realized that an ADHD diagnosis does not mean she was broken. Many ADHD people have amazing skills because of their ADHD, not in spite of their ADHD.
For Katie, an ADHD diagnosis was finally a chance to start building the life she wanted (that also works for her ADHD brain and not against it).
Key Takeaways
- Effective ADHD therapy is as important as an accurate ADHD.
- ADHD treatment should be personalized and not “one size fits all. ”
- It’s normal to have strong feelings after being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult.
- An ADHD diagnosis is an opportunity to live the life you want (and not a sign you are broken).
Begin Adult ADHD Testing in Columbus, OH
Wondering if you have ADHD? You don’t have to live your life feeling scattered without knowing why. Comprehensive ADHD testing can help you find answers. Our Columbus, OH counseling practice has caring therapists who specialize in ADHD Treatment. To start your counseling journey, follow these simple steps:
- Fill out the contact form to schedule a free 15-minute phone
- Meet with one of our caring therapists.
- Stop feeling like you’re not meeting your full potential. Start getting things done.
Other ADHD Services Offered at Focused Mind ADHD Counseling
Adult ADHD testing is not the only service we offer at our Columbus, OH counseling practice. At Focused Mind ADHD Counseling, we offer a variety of mental health services, including ADHD treatment. As an adult with ADHD, we know you may also benefit from ADHD counseling, anxiety treatment for ADHD, counseling for men with ADHD, couples therapy for ADHD, or depression counseling for ADHD. You can also view our blog for more resources and helpful info!
